The HART (Highway Addressable Remote Transducer) Communication Protocol is the global standard for sending and receiving digital information across analog wires between smart devices and control or monitoring systems. More specifically, it is a bi-directional communication protocol that provides data access between intelligent field instruments like gas detectors and host systems. A host can be any software application, from a technician’s hand-held device or laptop to a plant’s process control, asset management or safety system using any control platform.

The HART Communication protocol is available with the IRmax in two formats:

1. Local hand-held communicator connection. In this format, HART communicators are used on industrial sites for maintaining and calibrating a host of instruments. The key benefit is that site maintenance staff can use a common communicator to maintain all of their safety and process instruments. The user simply needs to upload and install the DD (Device Description) file to their communicator to access a wide range of IRmax functions and displays, alarm thresholds and diagnostic information.

2. HART over a 4-20mA signal line. In this format, the safety function is performed by the 4-20mA signal (connected to a conventional controller or PLC/DCS). A HART device can then also be connected in parallel with the signal connections to read the detector’s status information.

Featuring dual-wavelength IR sensor technology in a rugged 316 stainless steel package, the ultra-compact IRmax is designed to detect methane gas and other potentially explosive hydrocarbons in the harshest conditions.

As the IRmax contains no components for artificially heating optical surfaces, power consumption is dramatically reduced. It requires less than 1 Watt of power, typically 75-90% lower than conventional IR gas detectors. A gas detection system using IRmax detectors therefore requires smaller (and lower cost) power supplies and battery back-up systems. Longer cables can also be used and more detectors can be powered on addressable networks.

Unlike conventional IR gas detectors, the IRmax does not utilise heaters to prevent condensation on windows and mirrors. Instead, its optical components are treated with a highly durable hydrophobic coating called STAY-CLIR that completely prevents signal faults due to condensation.

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About Halma India

Halma India Pvt. Ltd. is the Indian hub of Halma plc, an international market leader in safety, health and sensor technology.

The hub is part of an expansion by Halma into the fast growing economies of Asia. It will initially provide administrative, accounting, legal and business development services to Halma's subsidiaries, eventually expanding to offer other services such as sales and marketing. Another important role is the provision of R&D and software development assistance to subsidiary companies, taking advantage of India's highly educated workforce.

Halma is a public company listed on the London Stock Exchange and has over 3600 employees in over 40 subsidiaries worldwide. Halma's subsidiaries make products that protect lives and improve the quality of life for people through innovation in market leading products which make its customers safer, more competitive and more profitable. These subsidiaries are assisting India’s thriving economy in areas such as manufacturing, energy, the environment, construction, transport and health.